Scotland's Economy

  • Scotland's strong financial foundations

    6th March 2013 by

    One of the most commonly asked questions in the debate over Scotland’s future is about our economy, whether we can afford to be independent and what it means for our economic future. Over the coming months we will be answering those questions, setting out Scotland’s finances as they are, the economic opportunities ahead of us...

    Read more

  • Another thousand opportunities for young people

    1st March 2013 by

    I attended a very special event this week – ‘The Gathering’ – a key date in the calendar for the third sector in Scotland. It’s a massive annual event that brings together Scotland’s social enterprise and voluntary organisation community. The third sector are valued partners in our endeavours to boost youth employment. They have a...

    Read more

  • Modern Apprentices

    31st January 2013 by

      We want Scotland to be recognised as the best country in the world in which to do business. Our workforce – our people – is perhaps our greatest asset and especially our young people. The Modern Apprenticeship scheme is good news for business and for young people. It has helped many thousands of people...

    Read more

  • MESL Microwaves – Globally Connected

    22nd January 2013 by

    Founded in 1964, MESL microwave has established a strong reputation internationally for its microwave products – we export more than 70 per cent of the components we manufacture in the UK to more than 25 territories. In 2008 we recognised the huge opportunities available in the emerging ‘space’ market and through working with Scottish Enterprise...

    Read more

  • A budget for the economy, and for fairness

    22nd January 2013 by

    Today saw the Scottish Government’s budget bill debated in Parliament – a budget for the economy, and for fairness. Scotland continues to face significant challenges as a result of global economic conditions and the United Kingdom Government’s approach to the public finances. Those challenges are brought into sharp focus by the continuing uncertainty in the...

    Read more

  • Academies will be welcomed by employers

    21st January 2013 by

    Last month I was very pleased to announce a £4.6 million award from the Scottish Funding Council for a pioneering training initiative for young people looking to work in tourism, healthcare, food and creative industries. Developed at Queen Margaret University, in collaboration with Edinburgh College and East Lothian Council, the initiative will see up to...

    Read more

  • Strengthening Scotland’s creativity: launch of Institute of Design Innovation

    16th January 2013 by

    Thanks to the work of generations of talented, enterprising Scots, Scotland has established an international reputation as being an innovative and creative nation. The Glasgow School of Art (GSA) is arguably one of our greatest hubs of creativity and today I helped to launch its new Institute of Design Innovation, which focuses on encouraging businesses...

    Read more